Incision Site Reopening??

Hi,

I am very grateful for this forum. I wish I could have contributed more, but I haven't had much time to myself lately. I have a quick question.

I had a dual chamber pacemaker implanted in early December. Initially, I had some complications with my incision, i.e. the stitches fell out on one end, and the knot on the other end had to be removed. I thought that the incision had finally healed and haven't given my pacemaker much thought. Two days ago, I started experiencing pain in the incision site. Periodically, I get a sensation like a pin or needle is piercing the area around the incision. I was curious, so I looked at the incision site, and I noticed a small red bump.

Upon closer scrutiny, I noticed that it appears that there is a tiny hole in the middle of the bump. I applied some peroxide, but there was no foaming or stinging, so I am wondering if the problem with the incision is internal. I am praying that this isn't the case.

My father was hospitalized in January and February with some serious diagnoses, i.e. diverticulitis with sepsis, hyponatremia, plus he was almost intubated twice. My mother died in late June, and my dad's health declined dramatically right after she died.

I am so exhausted from trying to help him with his myraid of health issues at this point, so I am hoping that what I have described with the pacemaker incision pain and red bump aren't serious. I have an appointment to see the cardiologist early in the week. I would appreciate any input any of you can provide, so that I am well prepared, as far as questions are concerned for my upcoming appointment. Thanks very, very much!!!

4 Comments

Checked out

by Theknotguy - 2014-03-08 06:03:07

While it may be overkill, I'd get it checked out. Don't know if you have one of the pharmacies that has the nurse on call nearby or not but that would be one place. Any friends who are nurses? Does your medical insurance have a nurse hotline? Worst case go to ER.

I don't feel you are in immediate danger, but you should get it checked out. The ease of mind is worth the cost of an ER visit. Like I said, may be overkill.

Hope you start feeling better.

Theknotguy

RE: Checked Out

by golden0072 - 2014-03-08 07:03:12

Yes, I do have a friend who is a nurse. Thank you very much for all of your advice.

Stitch

by trish - 2014-03-08 09:03:00

Maybe just a sub cutaneous stitch spitting or working its way out as a splinter does. Trisha

Re: Incision Reopening

by golden0072 - 2014-03-12 05:03:22

Thank you all for your help. The red bump had shrunk considerably by the time I saw the cardiologist. (Had it not been for my dad's caregivers urging me to call the cardiologist, I probably would have waited. That said, I was concerned about the bump and pain.) I am still having some of the pain sensations, but the cardiologist told me that the scar tissue is causing my pain. I'm so thankful for this group. I would have responded sooner, but my father continues to have major problems. He saw two specialists on Friday and two on Monday, so I have been busy driving him to appointments, trying to work, etc.

Again, thank you for ALL of your input!!

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